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SAE Book Details Trends in Hybrid Commercial Vehicles

SAE International published a 404-page book, "Advanced Hybrid Powertrains for Commercial Vehicles," detailing the latest trends and technologies in the rapidly developing hybrid commercial vehicle market.

Hybrid powertrains, which have become widely available in passenger cars and light-duty trucks, are beginning to see more applications in the commercial truck industry. The potential for significantly improved fuel economy, cleaner air, lower operating costs and less dependence on traditional fuel supplies are driving the market for hybrids, according to the authors.

The book was co-authored by Haoran Hu, chief scientist with the Eaton Corp., Rudy Smaling, executive director of systems engineering at Cummins Engine, and Simon Baseley, who recently retired from Bosch Rexroth Corp. and is now a visiting research investigator at the University of Michigan.

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The new SAE book covers the gamut of technologies intrinsic to developing hybrid commercial vehicles, including traditional internal combustion engines and advanced clutches and transmissions; energy storage systems (batteries, ultracapacitors and flywheels); and hydraulic-hybrid components and controls.

Next-generation technologies such as full-electric systems, fuel cells and the role hybrid commercial vehicles could play in future intelligent transportation systems also are detailed. Other chapters address government regulations and incentives as well as other market drivers and challenges.